Bob's family has a long history in the fishing industry. His great-grandfather, J.H. Doxsee, started a clam canning business in Islip, known as "J.H. Doxsee & Son."

Scope and Content Note
Bob Doxsee Jr. provides a fascinating account of his family's history and their involvement in the fishing industry on Long Island. Bob begins by recounting his childhood experiences living in a house on Meadow Island, which could only be accessed by boat. He describes the unique features of the house, such as the kerosene stove and lamps, rain barrel, and artesian well. Meadow Island was a popular summer destination for vacationers, and Bob and his siblings played with other children on the island, learning to swim and enjoying the natural surroundings. Bob reflects on the presence of foreigners, particularly Swedes and Norwegians, who worked for the Doxsee family on the water and discusses their characteristics and work ethic. He mentions the camp on Meadow Island, which consisted of two narrow buildings—one for storing nets and gear and the other serving as a bunkhouse and kitchen. Bob also shares stories about rum runners in the area, including a memorable encounter near his house. Bob provides genealogical information about his family and explains that one branch of the family moved the business to North Carolina, while his grandfather remained on Long Island and ventured into fin fishing. The partnership between Bob's grandfather and his brother, Henry C. Doxsee, dissolved, leading the family to relocate to Meadow Island, where they set up a camp. The interview includes discussions about the camp on Meadow Island, the workers who were present, and notable summer residents, including Ernie Wagner of the New York Philharmonic. Bob shares memories and shows photographs from his time at the camp, mentioning that the family moved to Meadow Island during World War I while his father and brother were serving in the war. The camp remained on Meadow Island from 1918 to 1933. Bob provides insights into the fishing practices of the Doxsee family, including pound fishing and the operation of pound nets. He discusses the techniques used, such as steering the scow and the process of sorting and cleaning the fish caught in the nets. Bob shares his father's working philosophy and recalls their experiences in pound fishing, including changes in boats, the use of donkey engines, and the types of fish caught, such as porgies, butterfish, and squid. The interview also touches upon Bob's involvement in clamming and the impact of a hurricane that damaged the pound nets, leading the family to focus solely on clamming thereafter. Bob discusses the family's clam boat and their connection to the clam canning industry in Islip. He also mentions his collection of tools, shares a poem he wrote, and reads a poem written by one of the workers.